Prince William and Kate Middleton have consciously decided to distance themselves from Prince Harry amidst ongoing tensions. The couple has chosen to focus on positivity and recovery, especially in light of Kate's cancer diagnosis and their demanding roles within the Royal Family.
Once inseparable, the bond between William, Kate, and Harry has been strained following Harry and Meghan Markle's departure from royal duties. Their public criticisms of the monarchy, through interviews, a Netflix series, and Harry's memoir "Spare," have added to the rift. An insider confirmed to OK! Magazine that William and Kate are prioritizing positivity, stating, "William and Kate are very consciously focusing on positivity and recovery."
This strategic decision comes after William reportedly decided to cut ties with Harry to avoid ongoing frustration. Royal expert Ingrid Seward told the Mirror, "William is sensitive, he likes structure and has perseverance. He does not give up easily. His relationship with brother Harry upset him more than he would care to admit. But he found it easier to cut ties rather than allow himself to be continually annoyed."
Harry's recent visit to the UK for the Invictus Games' 10th anniversary did not include meetings with any royal family members, including his father, King Charles. Their last encounter was a brief 45-minute meeting at Clarence House in February, following King Charles's cancer announcement.
Harry faces backlash in the United States over his upcoming receipt of the Pat Tillman Award. The award, given for using connections to the sports world to positively impact lives, has sparked controversy. Pat Tillman's mother expressed her disapproval, stating, "I am shocked as to why they would select such a controversial and divisive individual to receive the award. There are recipients that are far more fitting."
Despite the criticism, ESPN defended its decision, highlighting Harry's work with The Invictus Games Foundation. The network told The Hollywood Reporter, "ESPN, with the support of the Tillman Foundation, is honoring Prince Harry, Duke of Sussex, specifically for the work of The Invictus Games Foundation as it celebrates its 10th year promoting healing through the power of sport for military service members and veterans around the world."
Harry's strained relationships within the royal family are further complicated by his and Meghan's security concerns in the UK. Meghan is not expected to accompany Harry on his next visit due to these concerns, and there are deliberations about whether their children, Archie and Lilibet, will join him.
Royal commentator Jennie Bond expressed doubts about Meghan's participation in the upcoming Invictus Games event, stating, "I think this is pretty unlikely that Meghan will join him at the service given Harry's concerns about safety and the ongoing family tensions. I don't think her presence would make any reconciliation moves easier."
The tensions between Harry and his family were exacerbated by his tell-all memoir "Spare" and his 2021 interview with Oprah Winfrey. These public disclosures have deepened the divide, making reconciliation more challenging.
William and Kate's decision to focus on positivity reflects their desire to move forward amidst these challenges. With Kate undergoing treatment for cancer and their commitment to their royal duties, the couple aims to shield themselves from further negativity. As they navigate their roles within the royal family, their priority remains their well-being and the stability of their family.